The Carl Zeiss Planar T* 45 mm f/2 is a standard lens with T*-coating and 50° of viewing angle. It is a kit lens with 46 mm, with which Contax G cameras were equipped.

For a comparatively short period the Carl Zeiss Planar T* 2/45 has accumulated a lot of myths, rumors, and legends. According to one of them, the lens, due to its unique properties, was used for aerophotography by the US Air Force. In the end of the 1990s, according to the unconfirmed sources, it was recognized the sharpest lens ever. However, the same omnipresent sources claim that it is Number 2 only at the moment.

The photos made with the Carl Zeiss Planar T* 2/45 are distinguished with rich rendering, remarkable micro contrast, imperceptible distortion, absence of aberration and vignetting even with the aperture wide open. But unfortunately, the Planar optical scheme a 6-blade aperture blades limit the use of the lens as a portrait lens when cropped. Nevertheless, as a kit prime lens on a FF camera with a short flange focal distance, the Carl Zeiss Planar T* 2/45 lens is one of the best solution.

Owner reviews: Carl Zeiss Planar T* 45 mm f/2

Unsurpassed for image quality: highest resolution, best colour, best contrast, best sharpness, no chromatic aberration, no distortion, no vignet, excellent mechanics. Can be used for digital FF cameras.

Weaknesses:

No focus ring! Focus must be done by G2 camera or by lens adapter (this is the only weakness when lens is used for any camera other than G2).

Comments:

Best lens I have ever owned. For digital, excellent images. Must be used with the very best adapter to othr camera: otherwise focus is difficult.